Сайт Newham Citizen Science Fair (NCSF) 2026 was a busy, friendly and dynamic community event where people of all ages and abilities came together to learn, explore new ideas and participate in hands-on activities.
Now in its third year, this was the first time the NCSF was hosted at the Royal Docks Centre for Sustainability (RDCS), adding an exciting new dimension to the fair.
Members of purpleSTARS, RIX co-researchers and social work students hosted an exhibit inviting visitors to share their lived experiences by contributing to a multi-sensory collage map of Newham. Through creative sensory artworks and personal reflections, the exhibit brought together diverse perspectives and highlighted the real-life challenges, strengths and stories of Newham’s communities.
Lots to see and do
There were many different stalls and activities. People explored new technology, science projects and fun hands-on demonstrations. Ajay said:
I enjoyed the Newham Citizen Science Fair. It was very exciting. I saw different sections like Smile Powered Music with the PhotoSYNTH, the Newham Community Research Network and the UCL Citizen Science Academy. I also liked the Newham mind-mapping—it reminded me of growing up in old school, secondary school and sixth form. It was a very busy day and a lot of fun!
A fun and inclusive community event
Visitors said the event felt welcoming for everyone. Mary-Ann said:
It was a lovely, fun and engaging community event with lots to do for different ages and abilities. It was thought-provoking and there was lots to learn in a fun and interactive way.
Inspiring technology for accessibility
Many people were impressed by how technology is being designed to support people with learning and physical disabilities. Tofunmi said:
The fair was eye-opening and inspiring. I saw amazing projects showing how technology can be customised for people with disabilities. It reminded me how important it is to make new technology accessible for everyone. I loved seeing researchers, developers and community members working together. It deepened my understanding of what accessible technology can do, and why inclusive voices matter.
Gavin Sealy highlighted the need for us to approach Artificial Intelligence, AI, as a conversational tool that will strengthen our ability to think clearly as individuals and to think well together as communities. He argued AI is not about replacing people with machines but about highlighting the value of people in the age of the machine.
Working together and sharing ideas
The fair created opportunities for collaboration, conversation and co-production. Nic said:
It was a positive experience participating in the Newham Citizen Science Fair. I met a wide range of people and explored many different projects. The event felt open and collaborative, with informal conversations and hands-on activities helping people learn together. I especially enjoyed projects like the LEGO Mindstorms (which I spent ages playing with!) and the musical instruments created by Zen. These showed the creativity and technical skill in the community and highlighted how citizen-led innovation can bring people together.
Building skills and confidence
The fair was also a great place for students and young people to practise communication skills. Ifeoma said:
The fair was informative and insightful. I got to put my signing skills into practice while talking with others. It helped build my confidence in communication. It was a positive opportunity to participate and contribute. I enjoyed seeing local residents sharing high-quality research that supports our borough. I used my Makaton skills when talking with children who are D/Deaf or hard of hearing. It was a rewarding day that showed the power of inclusive community research.
A successful day for Newham
The Newham Citizen Science Fair 2026 showed how powerful community-led research can be.
People shared ideas, learned from each other and explored new ways to make Newham a fairer and more inclusive place.
Rix Inclusive Research at UEL is proud to support events like this, where everyone’s voice matters and everyone can take part.